The importance of breastfeeding for you and your baby
Breast milk is tailored to your baby's needs and contains nutrients and antibodies that protect against illness. It reduces the risk of infections such as ear infections, stomach problems and respiratory infections. At the same time, it stimulates the child's development and creates a close emotional bond.
For you as a mother, breastfeeding can reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and help the uterus contract after birth. Many women also find it to be a special time when they get very close to their child. But it is not always easy from the start – and it is perfectly normal to need help.
How to get off to a good start with breastfeeding
The first days after birth are crucial for establishing a good milk production. The more often the baby is put to the breast, the faster the production is stimulated. You should ideally breastfeed at least 8-12 times a day in the beginning.
Skin-to-skin contact is important
Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth helps the baby find the breast and increases milk production. Try lying with the baby without clothes on either of you, preferably as much as possible during the first 24 hours. It promotes closeness, calm, and the hormone oxytocin, which is important for both milk flow and attachment.
Find the right breastfeeding position
There is no single right way to breastfeed – the most important thing is that it feels good for you and the baby. The baby should latch onto most of the dark area (areola) and not just the nipple. Head and body should be in a straight line, and the baby should face you.
Read also: 15 good breastfeeding positions
Try different positions such as the cradle hold, the twin position (good for C-sections), or laid-back breastfeeding, where the baby finds the breast on their own. Use pillows or a nursing pillow for support and make sure you are sitting or lying relaxed.
What do I do if it hurts?
It is normal to experience tenderness in the beginning, but pain and cracks are signs that the child may not be suckling correctly. This can quickly become painful and lead to avoidance of breastfeeding - which exacerbates the problem.
Adjust the technique
If it hurts, gently take the child off the breast (insert a finger into the corner of the mouth), and try again. If necessary, have a health visitor or doctor take a look – small adjustments in position or grip can have a big effect. If there are sores, you can use purified lanolin or air-dry the nipple after breastfeeding to promote healing.
Enough milk? Here's how to know
It's a widespread concern: "Is my child getting enough milk?" The best benchmark is the child's well-being – does the child seem satisfied, have regular wet diapers, and gain weight?
Most newborns lose a little weight after birth, but should start gaining weight again after a few days. If you are in doubt, your health visitor or doctor can help assess whether everything is progressing as it should. Don't carry the worry alone.
When breastfeeding needs to be supplemented
If the child is not gaining enough weight, or if you do not have sufficient milk production, it may be necessary to supplement with formula. That's perfectly fine – the most important thing is that the child gets nourishment and thrives.
A combination may be the solution
You can continue breastfeeding while bottle-feeding. Often, breastfeeding can be restored or improved with support and guidance. Contact your doctor if you need a plan that takes both you and your child into account.
Breastfeeding and your daily life
Breastfeeding takes up a lot of time and emotional energy in the beginning. It can be exhausting - especially if you are tired or not getting enough sleep.
Allow yourself to take breaks and ask for help with practical matters. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. You breastfeed best when you feel good yourself.
Establish a good nursing routine
Create a consistent and cozy spot for breastfeeding where you can sit comfortably and have everything you need within reach. A glass of water, a good book, or your phone can make these moments more enjoyable – especially at night.
When should I seek help?
If you experience pain, sores, tense breasts, fever, or redness (signs of mastitis), you should seek help quickly. Also if your child refuses to breastfeed or is not thriving.
At Doctors in Denmark, we are ready to help you, even without a long wait. We know that breastfeeding problems can feel pressing, and therefore we offer appointments the same day – even evenings and weekends. You don't have to face your worries alone.